3 Years Later, Andrew Garfield’s 7-Part Crime Thriller Series Remains A Perfect NYT Bestselling Book Adaptation

Andrew Garfield is widely considered one of the most talented actors working today, so it’s no surprise he delivers a fantastic performance in this crime thriller. The show, which is based on a book, remains remarkably well-made three years after its release. Garfield is famous for playing Spider-Man in three films and has also received several Academy Award nominations for his other roles.

Although many associate Andrew Garfield with potential appearances in future Spider-Man movies, he’s also been praised for his role in a fantastic TV show. The series is a gripping crime drama based on a popular New York Times bestseller, and it’s considered a remarkably faithful adaptation.

Why Andrew Garfield’s Under The Banner Of Heaven Is A Great Book Adaptation

I was completely gripped by Under the Banner of Heaven. John Garfield is amazing as Jeb Pyre, a detective whose beliefs are really shaken when he investigates a terrible murder. It’s so disturbing because the case – the deaths of Brenda Lafferty and her baby – forces him to question everything he thought he knew about his Mormon faith. What’s really unsettling is watching Jeb get drawn into this extreme, fundamentalist Mormon group and learning about their practices. It’s a dark story, but so compelling.

The Hulu true-crime series Under the Banner of Heaven premiered on April 28, 2022. It’s based on Jon Krakauer’s 2003 book, Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith, and both the series and the book delve into the history of the LDS Church, Mormon fundamentalism, and the tragic deaths of Brenda Lafferty and her daughter, Erica. Despite covering the same topics, there’s a significant distinction between the two.

I was really captivated by the book this series is based on – it’s a powerful, though often difficult, true story. What I love about the Hulu adaptation is that it stays true to so much of that reality, but also smartly adds fictional elements. It feels like these changes were made to really pull you into the world of the characters and the Mormon community, and to make the mystery even more engaging.

The story was told through the fictional character of Jeb, allowing viewers to explore the difficult feelings someone might experience within the Mormon faith when confronted with a terrible crime committed by people who believed they were acting on divine instruction. The series, Under the Banner of Heaven, remains powerful and relevant.

Why Under The Banner Of Heaven Is Worth Watching

Beyond offering a fascinating look into Mormon culture, its history, and how beliefs can be manipulated, Under the Banner of Heaven is a compelling watch thanks to its impressive cast. The crime thriller stars Andrew Garfield and also features well-known actors like Sam Worthington (from Avatar), Daisy Edgar-Jones (from Twisters), Wyatt Russell (from Thunderbolts), and Denise Gough (from Andor), among others.

With only seven episodes, Under the Banner of Heaven is a great choice for a weekend watch, and its intriguing story quickly grabs your attention. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes gave it an 87% rating, while audiences scored it at 81%. If you enjoy true crime, are curious about the Mormon faith, or simply love a good mystery, Under the Banner of Heaven is definitely worth checking out.

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2025-12-29 23:49